Jim Bruce

Jim Bruce was born & bred in Glasgow, Scotland, and started piano lessons in his early teens and then graduated to playing the organ. His first appointment as organist, at the age of 15, was in a small Episcopal Church in Glasgow.

Jim’s family migrated to Australia and he followed a few years later in 1972. There were comparatively few opportunities to play the organ in Perth at that time. After an audition, he was offered a place in St George’s Cathedral Choir, which was directed by Michael Wentzell, and he continued organ studies with him. After Michael's death, Jim had organ tuition with Annette Goerke at St Mary's Cathedral. During this period, he was fortunate to have individual master classes with Dame Gillian Weir.

He was appointed Organist at Christ Church Claremont in August 1974 by the Reverend Richard Appleby. A choir was formed soon after his arrival and he also became choir director. After 40 years of faithful service, Jim continues to play the organ at Christ Church and is now Assistant Organist.

Jim works in social work at Royal Perth Hospital. He is married to Jenny and has two adult children and two grandchildren. In his spare time he plays inline hockey and enjoys listening to music. He also plays in a small group who perform traditional Scottish music.